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Stories About Hawaii Educators

Watch and read stories about the life-changing impact of local teachers and professors.

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#MyAwesomeTeacher

Our teachers are great sources of encouragement, inspiration, and positive life transformations. Many of us have had a teacher who made a major impact on our lives or helped us to simply do better.

Here, HEA showcases testimonials about amazing teachers to highlight the importance of our local educators. These stories were collected and featured throughout our website, newsletter, and social media in 2021 as part of our 100th anniversary celebration.

Community Testimonials

We are honored to share these memories from our community about the impact of Hawaii educators on their students’ lives.

“Thank you, Mr. Richard Kaichi for encouraging my love of music as my orchestra teacher at Kalakaua Middle. I can never repay your support, but you’d be happy to know I’m still in love with classical music.”

Jonathan Vellez

In honor of Richard Kaichi

Kalakaua Middle School

“Strict yet respected and knowledgeable, Mr. Kutsunai made learning fun at Lahainaluna High School. His style of teaching was first-class and made me want to follow in his footsteps.”

Jaise Tagabi

In honor of Mr. Kutsunai

Lahainaluna High School

“One of my first teachers was Ms. Dottie at First Chinese Church of Christ Preschool. I was excited to go to school every day because Ms. Dottie would be there with a hug for me and a smile on her face.”

Liane Okumura

In honor of Ms. Dottie

First Chinese Church of Christ Preschool

“While my son learning to write his name might seem ordinary for a preschooler, it was a milestone for us because he has autism. Mrs. Kau‘i Samson Chong at Holomua Elementary School helped him find his voice.”

Jennifer Rivera

In honor of Kau‘i Samson Chong

Holomua Elementary School